Tesla Model S Smashes 400-Mile Range Ceiling
Tesla CEO Elon Musk shared an announcement Monday evening that the Long Range Plus version of its Model S sedan now has an EPA rating of 402 miles of total range — up from a previous estimate of 391 miles — though the EPA’s website still lists the Model S Long Range at 373 miles of range. The news makes it the first electric vehicle to (probably) have an EPA range estimate of more than 400 miles.
Related: Electric Cars With the Longest Range
How Tesla Did It
The increased range estimate applies to Model S Long Range Plus models built since “earlier this year” and comes about thanks to a number of small changes to the Model S. They include redesigned aerodynamic wheels and the use of tires with a lower rolling resistance, revised regenerative braking that can return more energy back to the battery and the replacement of a mechanical oil pump with an electric one. The automaker also cites weight reductions in the seats, battery pack and drive units.
Does It Matter?
It depends. It certainly matters if you’re planning on taking the Model S Long Range Plus on lengthy road trips, a truly American activity. For day-to-day use, however, it probably won’t make a great deal of difference for owners with at-home charging — unless those owners drive like this.
What Will It Cost?
The Long Range Plus version is now the base trim level for the Model S, and after May’s price reduction, it carries a starting price of $76,190 (prices include $1,200 destination fee). The other choice in the Model S lineup is the significantly quicker Performance model, with a starting price of $96,190 and total range of either 348 miles with 20-inch wheels or 326 miles with 21-inchers. Ordering for both is available on Tesla’s website.
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